As a visitor to Ropner Park for over 30 years I have always believed, and informed others, that, given its size, the park is simply the finest of its kind in Cleveland.

Sadly, with the new and excellent play area, I feel this is no longer the case.

I am informed the reason for the removal of so many trees on the perimeter is a simple security measure so parents can look into the park while children play.

Maybe so, but I take no pleasure in the knowledge that, as I stroll the dog or walk the kids through the park, I can now be observed and watched from almost any angle and in return have the pleasure of looking at all the kerb-parked vehicles.

Parks like Ropner have always been there as a retreat, now they are a viewing gallery.

Perhaps in two or three years when the new developments take root, things will be different.